Brussels sprouts can be one of those, either you love them or you hate them. The truth is if they are done right you might just fall in love with these little sprouts that remind you of mini cabbages.

Actually brussels sprouts are in the cruciferous family such as cabbages and cauliflower. They hold a big punch in nutrition as well. In fact, many studies have shown that cruciferous vegetables such as arugula, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, bok choy and kale are rich in sulforaphane – one of the primary phytochemicals (protective compounds found in plants) that helps prevent cancer.

Recent studies from the Linus Pauling Institute, which was supported by the National Cancer Institute, suggest that sulforaphane can selectively target and kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells healthy and unaffected.

Here are two more reasons why you should incorporate brussels sprouts into your diet:

• They lower cholesterol ~ brussels sprouts have bile acid binding properties, meaning they stick to cholesterol and help guide it out of the digestive system, so it’s not absorbed in the blood steam.

• They help reduce Inflammation ~ brussels sprouts are high in antioxidants, which protect cells from free radical damage and help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation in the body is a leading cause for most degenerative diseases and aging. I really believe you should enjoy your food and eat as many healing ingredients as possible. I hope you enjoy this recipe and remember to always Set the Table with Love.

Brussels Sprouts and Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest, plus 1 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 1 pound brussels sprouts, cleaned, trimmed and leaves separated 2-tablespoons raw walnuts 1 avocado, halved, pitted, peeled, and cubed 2 tablespoons cranberries, for garnish.

Instructions: Whisk together lemon zest and juice and mustard in a bowl. Add oil in slow nice and steady streams, whisking until emulsified. Next, season with salt and pepper. Clean the brussels sprouts and cut off the bottoms. Cut the brussels sprouts in halves and pull the leaves apart. Add the leaves, cut halves and walnuts into the dressing bowl. Toss the brussels sprout leaves and walnuts. Gently stir in avocado cubes, cranberries and season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.